What are the common functions used to solve limits in single variable calculus?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying and ranking functions based on their rates of growth towards infinity, specifically in the context of limits in single variable calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to create a list of functions ordered by their growth rates as they approach infinity. Questions arise regarding the placement of trigonometric functions and the accuracy of the proposed list. Some participants suggest including additional functions and methods, such as asymptotic analysis.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing suggestions for refining the list of functions. There is acknowledgment of the complexity involved in ranking functions, particularly when considering various types of functions like factorials and exponentials. Some guidance has been offered regarding potential inclusions in the list.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the completeness of their lists and the relevance of certain functions, indicating that the discussion is framed within the constraints of single variable calculus knowledge.

Destroxia
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Homework Statement



Can you create a list of which functions increase towards infinity the fastest for limit solving?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm trying to make a list from least speed, to fastest speed, in approaching infinity.

As in, if you have a limit, and it has multiple types of functions, which function will be the largest, fastest.

I tried making my own little list, but I'm not sure how accurate it is, or if I'm missing any functions. Also, I'm not sure where trig functions would fit onto this list, or if they even do, because they oscillate. I'm just trying to make this for a friend.

Logarithmic > Square Root > Algebraic > Exponential ?
 
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You can use asymptotic analysis if you know how to.
You may also include in your list Power functions between Algebraic and Exponential, and Nth root between Logarithmic and Square Root.
 
There are lots of different functions depending on what you want to consider. Trouble will arise when making a list if you consider multiple factorials and exponentiations.

Maybe a starting point for a list would look something like:

$$\text{log}(x) < \text{log}(x \text{log}(x)) < x^n < b^x < x! < x^x$$

This barely covers a list of functions, and I'm not sure the list is what you are looking for.

For a more complete list of functions, see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_mathematical_functions
 
StrongSpica said:
You can use asymptotic analysis if you know how to.
You may also include in your list Power functions between Algebraic and Exponential, and Nth root between Logarithmic and Square Root.

Zondrina said:
There are lots of different functions depending on what you want to consider. Trouble will arise when making a list if you consider multiple factorials and exponentiations.

Maybe a starting point for a list would look something like:

$$\text{log}(x) < \text{log}(x \text{log}(x)) < x^n < b^x < x! < x^x$$

This barely covers a list of functions, and I'm not sure the list is what you are looking for.

For a more complete list of functions, see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_mathematical_functions

Thank you, I appreciate it, I was just looking for a basic list that encompasses everything one should know at a single variable calculus level!
 

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